Inflammation of an abnormal pouch (diverticulum) in the intestinal wall usually found

in the large intestine.

What are the S/S of Diverticulitis?

Left lower quadrant pain (or RLQ or abdominal pain)

Fever/chills

Leukocytosis (increased WBC)

N/V

What is the cause of Diverticulitis? #3

Lack of dietary fiber, particularly non-soluble fiber ("roughage").

Small, protruding sacs when they become inflamed are thought to develop as a

result of high pressure or abnormal pressure in the colon. High pressure

against the colon wall causes pouches of the intestinal lining to bulge

outward through small defects in the colon wall that surround blood

vessels.

What is pathophysiology of diverticulitis?

Small, protruding sacs when they become inflamed are thought to develop as a result of high pressure or abnormal pressure in the colon. High pressure against the colon wall causes pouches of the intestinal lining to bulge outward through small defects in the colon wall that surround blood vessels.

Tests (3) to diagnose diverticulitis?

Abdominal palpation

CT scan with oral and IV contrast (98% accurate)

High white blood cell count

How to prevent diverticulitis? #6

A high-fiber diet may prevent development of diverticulosis.

Some doctors tell patients with a history of diverticulitis to avoid nuts andseeds in the diet. However, there is no evidence that this is helpful to prevent the disease.